Appeal for QLD to stand with Defence families

April 11, 2019 - PRLog -- With ANZAC Day just two weeks away, volunteers from RSL Queensland are out in force across Queensland for the annual ANZAC Appeal.

RSL Queensland President Tony Ferris said the funds raised went directly to supporting local veterans and their families.

"More than 196,000 current and former service people live in Queensland and we are committed to providing them and their families with a wide range of support," Mr Ferris said.

Young Brisbane photographer and Defence family member Rhiannon Whitaker is pursuing her dream of setting up a photography business with the help of a $12,000 RSL Queensland Veteran Dependant Scholarship.

"Receiving the RSL scholarship was a special moment – I became the first member of my family to go to university and it meant I could pursue my creative passion and build my career without worrying about money," Ms Whitaker said.

"The Army runs in my family's blood. My Dad and grandfather both served and I am so proud of them.

"The programs and services provided by RSL Queensland really help families like mine adjust to life outside Defence."

Mr Ferris urged Queenslanders to stand shoulder to shoulder with the state's Defence families.

"RSL Queensland's programs have evolved to focus on the most challenging aspects of transitioning out of Defence," he said.

"Last year, we secured housing for 144 veterans and jobs for 114 veterans and their partners, as well as submitting 4,700 claims to the Department of Veterans' Affairs.

"RSL Queensland also invested $1.6 million in wellbeing programs, contributed $1.4 million to our Sub Branches for grassroots welfare activities, and committed $5 million to Mates4Mates to support current and former service people who have suffered physical or psychological injuries.

"By digging deep and donating to the ANZAC Appeal, you can show you care and thank our service people for their dedication and service to the country."

Volunteers will be in shopping centres and train stations across Queensland until ANZAC Day, with the ANZAC Day Ambush to be held in Brisbane CBD on Thursday 18 April.